This Holi, visit the beautiful capital city of Kathmandu, where the festival is celebrated with great fervour and devotion.
March is when Holi is celebrated and in Nepal’s Kathmandu, it is all about feasting, singing, and dancing your heart out, as your make your way through a riot of colour. The city is also the best place to indulge in a melange of activities – whether it is wildlife, spirituality, culture, or art.
Kathmandu celebrates the festival of colour in all its gaiety as this festival marks the end of winter and onset of spring. The weeklong festival celebrates the triumph of good over evil and is said to be the day when demon princess Holika, Hiranyakashipu’s sister, was killed when she tried to burn her nephew, Prahlad, and instead got burnt to death herself.
The lush landscape of Kathmandu lends itself to some amazing flora and fauna that take centre stage in the valley. One such space the 6.95 hectare Ranibari Community Forest near Lazimpat where bird watching is popular.
Kathmandu is a paradise for culture and heritage lovers being he to a whopping seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Start your exploration at the Pashupatinath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu sites located on the banks of the Bagmati River on the eastern side of the city.
When in Kathmandu, a visit to Thamel, a vibrant space that has local restaurants and street shops is a must. The best place to shop for souvenirs from Tibetan Singing Bowls, Glass Pipes, incense sticks, Kukri swords, books, and clothes this is where you must head to but remember to sharpen your bargaining skills.
Read the full story that first appeared in Spice Route March 2024 issue here:
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